After curing, the plates are stacked either by hand or
by machine so that
positive and negative plates alternate with an insulating separator in
between. The major source of lead exposure in the stacking process is from oxide from
the plates which can become easily airborne.

Stacking

Figure 1. Ventilated scrap barrel

Figure 2. Contaminated clothing

Figure 3. Central vacuum drop station

Figure 4. Hand stacking

Potential Sources of Exposure

Exposure to lead dust may occur from
improperly handling plates in unsealed envelopes.

Tamping plates in unventilated areas, such as the rack, creates a puff of dust.

Lead oxide that accumulates on equipment, racks, and floors may become airborne.

Clearing stacking equipment jam-ups.

Exposure to lead may increase when scrap plates
are handled improperly, such as throwing in unventilated pail.

Leaning against equipment may increase clothing
contamination.

Exposure to lead may increase from emptying clean-out trays improperly, by dumping in unventilated area.

Lead dust may escape from the stacking machine if the hinged panels are not closed.